A TV favourite is saying goodbye to the Bay after more than 30 years.

Lynne McGranger, who plays Irene Roberts in the hit Aussie soap, has announced she will be leaving the show.

She revealed she will be hanging up her apron in the Diner after 32 years playing the beloved character.

The 72-year-old said: “After almost 33 years in my dream role and working everyday with people who I love, respect and whom I now consider family, it’s bittersweet to be closing the chapter on what has been the best and longest gig of my life.

“I am forever grateful to the best production crew in the world and to our genius writers – whose doors are always open – for everything they have done for Irene over the past 33-odd years.

"And I am so proud of the storyline which will see Irene out of the Bay.

"Above all, a massive, heartfelt thank you to the fans for your continued love and support.”

Lynne is the longest-serving female actor in an Australian drama series.

She made her on-screen debut in January 1993 and has had a number of key storylines over the years.

She joined the cast as a mother trying to reconnect with her daughter Fin, after her alcoholism drove her away.

Over the years, she has remained sober, but it also shown her when she relapsed, as recently as last year.

Irene has fostered numerous children in her time in the soap, with an open door policy to kids in the Bay.